Wanda Jean Packard, 83, Sims, Indiana, passed away at 10:45 am on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, in her Sims home. She was born in Adams County, Ohio, on Tuesday, September 6, 1938, to Ralph R. and Vada (Cuthrell) Peterson.
Wanda graduated from Swayzee High School in 1956, where she met the love of her life, Russel B. Packard. They were married in Dallas, Texas, on July 19, 1956. They enjoyed 53 years of marriage until Russel’s death in 2009.
Although Wanda was born in Ohio, a Buckeye, she grew up in Indiana and became a Hoosier. She lived in California for many years before returning to Indiana.
Wanda retired from Kmart in Victorville, California. She also worked at Kmart in Marion for several years before moving to California. Wanda was a member of Church of Christ in Normal, Indiana.
Wanda was a wonderful wife, mom, grandma, sister, and aunt. She and her husband loved to travel. They traveled to all 50 states. She loved going every Friday on the “Sister Trips” that were chauffeured by her husband, Russel. She was an avid basketball fan and enjoyed cheering on the Oak Hill High School girls and boys teams, as well as the Indiana University Hoosiers. She also enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting, and working crossword and jigsaw puzzles.
Survivors include her daughter, Sherri Lynn White of Van Nuys, CA; son, Steven (Mary) Packard of Palmdale, CA; grandchildren, Alex Packard of Palmdale, CA, and Elliot White of Van Nuys, CA; sister, Jo Ann (Phil) McGhee; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Michael Packard; and sisters, Virginia Riser, Rosalie Peterson, Lois Ware, and Kathleen Peterson.
The family will receive visitors from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon on Wednesday, March 9, 2022, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, Rybolt Chapel, 314 N. Washington St., Swayzee, IN.
A graveside service for Wanda will take place at Marion National Cemetery at 1:00 pm with Pastor Ed Bridegroom officiating.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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